If you're budgeting for LEV testing, you'll find that what it costs depends almost entirely on the system in front of you. A single extraction hood and a multi-branch fume-extraction network are very different jobs. This guide explains what moves the figure for a LEV thorough examination and test under COSHH 2002, so you can read a quote with confidence.
What affects the cost of LEV testing
- Number of extraction points. A competent tester measures airflow and capture performance at each hood, slot, booth, or cabinet. The more extraction points, the more measurements and the longer the visit.
- System type and complexity. A single spray booth is straightforward. Multi-hood welding-fume extraction, a bank of laboratory fume cupboards, or long ducted networks each take more time to test and assess.
- Access. Ductwork on a roof, in a confined space, or at height takes longer to reach and inspect. Easy ground-level access keeps the visit efficient.
- System age and condition. Older systems often need more careful assessment, ducts accumulate deposits, filters clog, and fans lose performance, all of which the test has to account for.
- What the report needs to cover. A COSHH-compliant report with capture-velocity readings, a defect register, and photographs is more involved than a bare certificate.
- Frequency. COSHH requires LEV to be thoroughly examined and tested at least every 14 months, and some processes more often, so the testing interval shapes the ongoing budget.
What a proper quote includes
- Capture-velocity and airflow measurements at each extraction point, taken with a calibrated anemometer.
- Inspection of ductwork, filters, and fans for condition and performance.
- An assessment of whether the system still controls exposure for the process it serves.
- A COSHH-compliant written report with readings, findings, photographs, and a defect register.
- The date the next test is due.
If a quote is just for a "certificate", ask what testing actually happens. A certificate with no measurements behind it tells you nothing about whether the system protects anyone.
Why the cheapest quote can cost more
- Visual-only checks. LEV testing means measuring airflow, not just looking at the equipment. A test with no instrument readings isn't a test.
- No breakdown per extraction point. A single pass/fail for a multi-hood system hides which hoods are underperforming.
- Competence not confirmed. LEV examination is a specialist discipline. Ask whether the tester holds recognised LEV competence.
- A report that won't satisfy an HSE inspector or evidence your COSHH compliance if exposure is ever questioned.
How to compare quotes fairly
- Ask what competence the tester holds for LEV examination.
- Confirm measurements are taken at every extraction point, not sampled.
- Check professional indemnity and public liability cover.
- Ask to see what the report contains, readings, photographs, a defect register.
Safe-Lee tests LEV as an independent consultancy and issues COSHH-compliant reports, typically within one to two working days. See our LEV testing service or ask for a quote.
Frequently asked questions
How long does an LEV test take?
It depends entirely on the number of extraction points and how easy they are to reach. A single booth is quick; a large multi-hood network across a site is a longer job. The quote should reflect the system, not a flat figure.
Can you test out of hours?
Often, yes, useful where testing during production would be disruptive. Out-of-hours work usually takes more arranging, so mention it when you ask for a quote.
What's the difference between LEV testing and servicing?
Servicing maintains the system; the statutory thorough examination and test verifies it actually controls exposure. They're separate, and a service is not a substitute for the COSHH test.
Is travel or VAT charged separately?
Ask each firm whether their figure includes travel and whether it's quoted inclusive or exclusive of VAT. We make both clear up front.
What happens if the system fails the test?
The report records which extraction points underperform and why, with recommendations to put it right. A failed system should be addressed promptly, since it means workers may not be adequately protected.